Doctors give Thielen family good news

This article submitted by Linda Stelling on 12/20/00.
The Paul Thielen family received good news last week. Little Alexxis' leukemia is in remission. Her blood is starting to make white blood cells.

Alexxis has been at the University of Minnesota Hospital since Halloween, Oct. 31, fighting for her life.

According to Pat Thielen, Alexxis grandmother, the family was elated with the news, but Alexxis has a long way to go yet. Her body is still fighting infections and she is still experiencing high temperatures.

She is also combating a fungal growth in her lungs.

Doctors have removed the feeding tube and Alexxis is allowed to eat anything she wants.

"We are overwhelmed with the outpouring of support from the community," Pat said. A breakfast in Manannah on Dec. 10, raised $2,500 for the family.

Alexxis is the two-year-old daughter of Paul Thielen, and granddaughter of Harold and Pat Thielen, all of Paynesville.